EGCG – a polyphenol of extraordinary biological power

What EGCG is and why it arouses such great interest among scientists

EGCG, that is epigallocatechin gallate, is the strongest of the catechins found in green tea. It stands out for its exceptional antioxidant activity and its broad influence on cellular metabolism. It is one of the most thoroughly studied plant ingredients, and its influence on health has been confirmed in numerous clinical analyses. EGCG works in many directions – it supports the reduction of inflammatory states, protects cells against oxidative stress, improves the metabolism of fats and stimulates regenerative processes. This is one of the reasons why green tea is regarded as one of the healthiest plants in the world.

The mechanism of action of EGCG – how the polyphenol affects cells

EGCG penetrates cellular structures and acts on numerous metabolic pathways. It neutralises free radicals before they manage to damage DNA, lipids or proteins. It also acts as a modulator of cellular signalling, supporting repair processes and influencing the expression of the genes responsible for the protection of cells. One of the most important roles of EGCG is the regulation of the oxidative stress axis and the activation of detoxification enzymes that eliminate harmful metabolites from the body. Thanks to this, cells work more efficiently and the ageing process of the tissues is slowed down.

EGCG and the reduction of inflammatory states

An inflammatory state can be a natural response of the body, but its chronic form favours the development of many diseases, from atherosclerosis to neurodegenerative disorders. EGCG inhibits the activity of pro-inflammatory mediators and supports the processes that calm the inflammatory response. It also shows the ability to stabilise cell membranes and to increase the resistance of tissues to environmental factors. As a result it has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, the nervous system and the skin.

The influence of EGCG on metabolism and body weight control

EGCG plays a significant role in the regulation of fat metabolism. It supports thermogenesis, that is the process of increased energy expenditure, and raises the rate of metabolic changes. For this reason green tea extracts with a high content of EGCG often appear in supplements supporting body weight control. EGCG also reduces the absorption of fats in the small intestine and contributes to an improvement of insulin sensitivity, which matters for people with metabolic problems. Its action does not replace a healthy diet, but strengthens its effects at the cellular level.

EGCG and the cardiovascular system

The circulatory system benefits from EGCG on several levels. The polyphenol supports the proper functioning of the vascular endothelium and inhibits the oxidation of the LDL fraction, which is one of the main factors leading to atherosclerosis. EGCG improves blood flow, supports the elasticity of the blood vessels and lowers pro-inflammatory parameters. Numerous analyses have confirmed its positive influence on arterial pressure and on the level of lipids. It is no coincidence that people who regularly drink green tea suffer less often from diseases of the circulatory system.

The importance of EGCG for the skin and the ageing processes

The skin, as the largest organ of the body, is particularly susceptible to the action of free radicals. EGCG protects the skin cells against photoageing, soothes irritation and supports the process of regeneration of the epidermis. Its antioxidant action helps to maintain the firmness of the skin and slows down the formation of wrinkles. Cosmetics using EGCG as an active ingredient are encountered more and more often, but the greatest influence on the skin is provided by supplementation, which acts at the systemic level.

The interaction of EGCG with other ingredients

EGCG works excellently together with vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid and resveratrol. These combinations strengthen the antioxidant action and raise the ability of cells to regenerate. EGCG also has a supporting effect on the mitochondria – improving their energy efficiency, which contributes to a better condition of the whole body. High-quality supplements often offer comprehensive formulas that combine polyphenols with antioxidants of synergistic action.

Safety of use and the bioavailability of EGCG

EGCG is a natural ingredient and in normal doses it is well tolerated. Its bioavailability, however, may be a problem – in the traditional form some of the polyphenols degrade quickly. This is precisely why modern supplementation makes more and more use of technologies that increase absorption, such as liposomes, nanoemulsions or phospholipid complexes. Thanks to this, EGCG works faster, more effectively and remains in the body for a longer time.

Innovative use of EGCG at DWATRO Laboratories

The DWATRO Laboratories brand develops formulas in which EGCG is enclosed in DWATRO®LIP liposomal dispersions, which significantly increases the bioavailability and the stability of the polyphenol. Thanks to the use of phospholipid carriers, EGCG is protected against decomposition and reaches the tissues more effectively, where it can perform its protective function. In DWATRO Laboratories products EGCG is often combined with vitamin C, coenzyme Q10 or collagen, which strengthens the antioxidant effect and supports the functioning of the immune system. This solution makes it possible to use the full potential of green tea in a modern form, adapted to the needs of the contemporary lifestyle.

Summary

EGCG is one of the strongest natural antioxidants, one that acts on the body in many directions – from the protection of cells, through the support of metabolism, to an improvement in the condition of the skin and of the cardiovascular system. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity makes it one of the most valuable plant compounds used in supplementation. The innovative DWATRO Laboratories formulas, based on liposomal technology, make it possible to use the properties of EGCG to the maximum and significantly increase its effectiveness. It is an ingredient of the future that plays a key role in the protection of cellular health.

My name is Dorota Wątróbska-Świetlikowska, I am a pharmacist and a scientist holding a habilitated doctorate in pharmaceutical sciences. I decided to combine my scientific knowledge and experience in order to create dietary supplements of the highest quality.

My passion and main area of research are submicron dispersion systems, such as submicron emulsions, liposomes and lipospheres. After obtaining my doctorate, I turned my attention to the practical aspects of parenteral nutrition, combining the needs of the patient with the possibilities of the pharmacist. Quality, safety and effectiveness are the most important things for me , which is visible both in my scientific work and in my approach to creating supplements from Dwatro Laboratories®.